A Fall Checklist for Parents of Children on the Autism Spectrum

Now that we’re nearing the end of October, most families have settled into the school routine — new teachers, new classrooms, and new expectations. But this is also the perfect time to pause and ask an important question:
Is my child getting all the support they need at school?

At the beginning of the school year, we often trust that everything will fall into place — that our child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 plan will follow them, that the teachers understand their needs, and that services will begin on schedule. But too often, a few weeks in, we realize something hasn’t started yet or that certain supports were overlooked.
That’s why this time of year is so critical for parents to reflect, check in, and make sure their child’s services and supports are truly in motion.

A Personal Reflection

This school year, Marcus started at a new school. That meant I had to make sure his IEP successfully transferred over — and that nothing was lost in the shuffle. I reached out early to his teacher and the school’s BCBA to confirm that all the services he qualifies for were still active: one-on-one support, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and his pull-out sessions for specialized learning.
I also had to make sure those services weren’t just written on paper — that they were scheduled and happening.

We’re reintroducing his communication device this year, too. It wasn’t successful in the past, so we worked together to design a new plan to help him use it more effectively. That collaboration — me, the teacher, and the BCBA — is what advocacy looks like in real life. It’s about checking, following up, and staying involved.
And I encourage every parent reading this to do the same.

Why This Check-In Matters

Every child on the spectrum deserves an educational plan that meets their unique needs — but it’s up to us, the parents and caregivers, to make sure those plans are working in practice.
By the end of October, most schools have settled into their rhythm, and that makes it the perfect time to review, ask questions, and make adjustments before too much of the year passes by.

Your October School Support Checklist

1. Review your child’s IEP or 504 plan.

Make sure every listed service and accommodation is being provided as promised. Ask for copies of schedules or notes from service providers.

2. Confirm your IEP meeting dates.

If your child hasn’t had an IEP meeting this school year, reach out to your child’s special education coordinator. If your child doesn’t yet have an IEP but you have concerns, request an evaluation in writing to start the process.

3. Communicate with your child’s teacher and specialists.

Schedule a brief check-in with your child’s teacher, therapist, or BCBA. Ask how your child is adjusting, what’s working well, and what challenges they’re noticing.
Also, ask if the teacher can send home a short daily or weekly note — just a few lines about how the day went, what your child enjoyed, or any difficulties they faced. These updates can help you spot patterns early and reinforce communication between home and school.

4. Watch your child’s behavior after school.

Frequent meltdowns, emotional withdrawal, or complaints about school may be signs that your child’s needs aren’t being met during the day.

5. Keep outside therapies aligned.

If your child receives outside services like speech or ABA, make sure those providers are communicating with the school team when possible. Consistency helps your child progress faster.

6. Prepare for upcoming evaluations.

If your child is newly diagnosed or you suspect they might be on the spectrum, reach out to your pediatrician or primary care provider to start an evaluation process now. Don’t wait for the new year — appointments and testing can take time.

Advocate Early, Not Later

When something isn’t working, don’t wait until spring to bring it up. Early communication can prevent months of lost progress.
Sometimes parents hesitate to speak up because they don’t want to seem demanding, but remember: you are your child’s strongest voice. You see what others might miss, and your involvement ensures your child doesn’t fall through the cracks.

Parent Tip of the Week

Don’t assume — confirm. Reach out to your child’s teacher or school team to make sure every service and support is active, scheduled, and working.

Closing Thoughts

As parents, we wear many hats — caregiver, advocate, and protector. But checking in on your child’s school supports doesn’t have to be stressful. Think of it as setting your child up for success for the rest of the year.
If something isn’t working, speak up. If something is working, celebrate it and thank the team that’s making it happen. Your voice matters in shaping how your child learns and thrives.

🎥 For more encouragement, stories, and educational videos, visit our We Are Autism YouTube Channel and subscribe to stay connected.
💬 You can also join our We-Are-Autism Care Circle on WhatsApp to connect with other parents navigating the same journey.

Support • Educate • Thrive

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